Close Brothers Asset Finance is one of the UK's most active aircraft finance lenders, with a dedicated aviation team that has been placing business jet transactions for over 20 years. They offer a conventional hire purchase / loan product that is well-suited to UK-registered aircraft held by companies or HNWIs.
Strengths
- Established aviation team with deep aircraft knowledge
- Competitive rates for corporate borrowers (from 6.4% p.a.)
- Will consider older aircraft up to 20 years
- Straightforward loan documentation - no complex lease accounting
- UK-based underwriting team with fast turnaround
Limitations
- Primarily focused on UK (G-reg) aircraft
- Less competitive for very large transactions (£15m+) vs specialist lessors
- Corporate borrowers preferred - private individuals may face stricter criteria
- Maximum term typically 10 years (vs 15 years with Global Jet Capital)
How Close Brothers Compares
vs Global Jet Capital
Global Jet Capital offers lower headline rates (from 5.9%) and longer terms (to 15 years), but uses a leasing structure rather than a conventional loan. Close Brothers is better for buyers who want straightforward ownership.
vs Lombard
Lombard (part of NatWest Group) has similar market positioning to Close Brothers. Rates are comparable; lender appetite varies by deal. We recommend quoting both.
vs Barclays Aviation Finance
Barclays offers longer terms (to 12 years) and similar LTVs. Close Brothers can sometimes move faster on credit decisions for smaller transactions.